Unlike whatever traffic you’re avoiding on Route 208, your cravings shouldn’t keep you from discovering Ringwood’s hidden gems. This guide serves up everything from cozy Italian trattorias to innovative farm-to-table spots—all within a short drive of town. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a memorable meal, these restaurants prove that great dining isn’t just a city luxury.
Alpine Deli & Pork Store Inc
$ | (973) 728-1646 | WEBSITE
Not everything at Alpine Deli & Pork Store is strictly traditional, but the most important items are. This authentic German deli in Ringwood prepares their specialties with care, so their three standout dishes—the fish sandwich, cucumber salad, and German potato salad—are completely satisfying. (So are the friendly owners who run the place). Some aspects are simpler, including the cozy atmosphere and straightforward service, but the entire experience feels genuine without any pretense.
If you’re looking for a charming neighborhood spot that feels like home, grab a seat at one of the wooden tables, and treat yourself to a few of those perfectly prepared sandwiches.
Bellvale Farms Creamery
$$ | (845) 988-1818 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for ice cream that feels like a special occasion without any of the guilt, Bellvale Farms Creamery should be (or might already be) in your regular rotation. This is a historic creamery in a beautiful mountainous area, and the obvious upside here is that you can enjoy top-notch ice cream with a spectacular view of the valley below.
A few things to know: The low carb chocolate chip option is a standout, the waffle cones are amazing, and you’ll experience an ambiance that could plausibly be the setting for a first date or a perfect family outing.
Sam’s Bar & Grill
$$ | (973) 520-7267 | WEBSITE
Sam’s Bar & Grill serves classic American comfort food and drinks out of a sports bar-like space in Ringwood’s local dining scene. Prices stay reasonable from dish to dish: the menu’s heartier options include items like the flavorful RFG burger, but the $18 firecracker shrimp appetizer is just as satisfying. They also have crispy tater tots, and you can hang out with friends in the cozy room, admiring the beautiful tin ceiling and fireplace that the owner maintains themselves.
If you’re looking for more laid-back dining with live music in the immediate area, the patio seating and Thursday karaoke both have good options.
Ringwood Pizza
$ | (973) 962-4722 | WEBSITE
It can be tough to find pizza that isn’t so limp and soggy it collapses into a sad, greasy mess like a deflated balloon. We can assure you the pies at Ringwood Pizza will not do this. This local favorite has everything from buffalo chicken and bacon ranch to chicken parm and classic pepperoni, and they also serve some excellent garlic knots and Italian sandwiches.
Lakeside Diner
$ | (862) 377-0999 | WEBSITE
It probably goes without saying, but at Lakeside Diner, you should be eating the Monte Cristo sandwich. Most of the options here are prepared fresh and served in large portions, and they’re marked as such on the menu. The grilled cheese and beef stew are solid, but be sure to get at least one Monte Cristo sandwich. That sandwich is thick, fluffy, and filled with melted cheese and your choice of meat.
dairy queen ringwood
$ | (973) 962-4379 | WEBSITE
Dairy Queen Ringwood isn’t your typical ice cream chain. This family-owned spot is entirely classic, so the pumpkin Blizzard is pure autumn flavor and the friendly service comes from a mother-son duo who genuinely care. Although the store could use a facelift, even if you’re with friends who want something simple, this place has great treats that everyone will enjoy, such as the spotless clean shop that makes it perfect after a baseball game or on a warm day.
Skyline Pizzeria & Restaurant
$ | (973) 962-4848 | WEBSITE
Skyline Pizzeria is perfect for when you need a low-key place where you can just walk in and not worry about explaining your pizza preferences to three different servers. At this all-day local spot, standout items are clearly popular with regulars, with options like the Old Fashioned Sicilian pie (an essential order), veggie veggie veggie wraps, and a variety of wings and knots. Skyline is casual, the food comes out quickly, there’s a location near Ringwood, with its warm and inviting atmosphere.
The staff, led by the friendly Ari, ensures every visit is pleasant, and the Margherita Pizza with its generous fresh basil and thick mozzarella is a must-try.
RSVP New York
$$$$ | (845) 533-5033 | WEBSITE
RSVP New York was opened with sophisticated dining in mind, with the goal of creating an exceptional culinary experience. At their Ringwood location, you can get chef-driven favorites like the creamy soup du jour, the flavorful harissa lamb kofte, the roasted wild salmon, and the succulent short rib with saffron rice and root vegetables purée, which could take on their fine-dining counterparts any day of the week. Leave some room for a glass of the mevushal Chateau Les Riganes Bordeaux 2022.
Most things with a ton of flavor layered in are a go, but that doesn’t make us any less impressed by the pastry chef’s creations here.
Artemio’s Prime and Proper
$$$$ | (973) 728-2344 | WEBSITE
Artemio’s Prime and Proper is a true hidden gem. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, the food is exceptional, and you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a fine dining experience. The owner often visits tables to ensure everything is perfect, and the staff is incredibly attentive. Yes, it’s a popular spot that can get busy, but either make a reservation ahead of time or enjoy a cocktail at the intimate bar while you wait—they often have a piano player adding to the ambiance.
The john dory fish is a standout, and the special veal chop parm is a generous masterpiece that’s perfect for sharing.
Spring Restaurant
$ | (973) 962-4322 | WEBSITE
Spring Restaurant is Ringwood’s resident charming Chinese place. The food tastes good, they keep things not greasy or overly spicy, and you could easily bring a date or a small group here. They’ve maintained consistent quality for over a decade with friendly staff who make you feel welcome. There’s a comfortable dining area that feels like a neighborhood favorite, with simple décor that lets the food take center stage.
If you’re looking for great Chinese food that won’t leave you feeling bloated, this is the place to be.
Dunkin’
$ | (973) 341-5707 | WEBSITE
Everyone deserves a good, reliable coffee option, brewed up just the way they like it. At Dunkin’ in Oakland, you’ll find fresh donuts, delicious coffee, and a lot more in their kid-friendly lounge. We like the perfectly made coffee and the always-fresh donuts, and the helpful staff gets the job done if you’re looking for suggestions. (There’s also a great play area for kids.)
Ringwood Chinese & Thai
$ | (973) 962-3585 | WEBSITE
No disrespect to standard takeout spots, but the sushi at Ringwood Chinese & Thai does not taste like typical strip-mall fare. It tastes fresh and impressively varied, which is appropriate for a hidden gem that also serves teriyaki, tempura, and tender beef dishes like the Beef Lo-Mein. This quick-service Chinese and Thai restaurant doesn’t have much frills—just straightforward tables and efficient service—so plan on stopping by for a satisfying meal. The menu is solid, fresh, and inhalable.
Skyline Luncheonette
$ | (973) 962-9584 | WEBSITE
Skyline Luncheonette should be considered a holy place for people looking for home-cooked comfort food. All of the classic dishes at this Ringwood diner are made with care, like their signature homemade corned beef hash. The corned beef hash has the consistency of a perfect breakfast, and the warm atmosphere created by the friendly staff is a regular guest star in our dining dreams.
The cozy spot with ample parking serves relaxed meals throughout the day, and we highly recommend coming by for a pleasant experience that attracts customers of all ages.
St. Eve’s
$$$ | (201) 857-4717 | WEBSITE
St. Eve’s is a fine dining spot in Ringwood where you can eat some baby lamb chops and short rib dinner, both of which are consistently excellent. The mussels are also phenomenal, as are a bunch of other things like the changing specials and the new brunch menu. St. Eve’s is under new ownership with chef Stefan, but it’s still welcoming and relaxed, and it’s ideal for when you need to have a special moment with family or a friend who appreciates understated elegance.
The Magpie Bakery
$ | (973) 291-6756 | WEBSITE
Being the one with a sweet tooth in your friend group can sometimes feel like you’re asking to indulge while everyone else is being sensible. At The Magpie Bakery, you can bring an entire crew of dessert lovers to a place that feels made just for them. The offerings are delightful and mostly-baked, with everything from strawberry shortcake and carrot cake to a morning treat provided with assistance from their own kitchen, like the matcha lavender chai and moist chai scone.
They also have a welcoming atmosphere with great service, and there’s a cozy scene both inside at the counter and out on their charming street-side seating area.
Dottie Audrey’s Bakery Kitchen
$ | (845) 915-3088 | WEBSITE
Breakfast is already comforting, but you’ll know Dottie Audrey’s Bakery Kitchen is made specifically for modern foodies when you see the rest of the menu. In addition to a large selection of perfectly made baked goods, the upscale yet casual offerings include morning classics like the Greek yogurt bowl and pulled pork sandwich, as well as creative iced drinks that pair beautifully with the tempting pastries.
You’ll enjoy everything in a welcoming space that looks like a country kitchen gone chic, with a showcase of goodies, varied seating, and friendly staff working efficiently around you.
Noor Biryani Indian Grill
$$ | (845) 533-4228 | WEBSITE
Indian restaurants are often a reliable choice for flavorful, well-prepared meals, and Noor Biryani Indian Grill is one of our top picks in the Ringwood area. The menu focuses on classic Indian dishes and is entirely family-run. They make their biryanis fresh to order, and even when the Chicken Chettinad comes perfectly seasoned and paired with steamed rice, you can still appreciate how good the spices are.
Other highlights are the Goat Biryani, Goat Mughlai, Shrimp Chettinad, and Chili Garlic Naan. The selection isn’t particularly extensive, but what they offer, they execute exceptionally well.